Types of outdoor fireplaces
Integrating an outdoor fireplace into your layout is a very good choice to brighten up the evenings and create a warm and unifying atmosphere . But as in all things,...
1. Think about your needs
Your patio can serve many purposes. It can be dedicated to a space for relaxation, entertainment, cooking and even as a workplace. The design of your patio must therefore take into account your specific needs for the use you plan to make of it. A little advice for your patio design: plan for the daily needs of your home and not for special occasions. Rare are the times when many of you will use it. It is therefore necessary to limit excess space in anticipation of receptions and concentrate on optimizing the real needs of your family. This will allow you to optimize space and be closer to your budget. To help you continue your reflection, write a list of your needs.
Photo: Lounge area with addition of a TojaGrid pergola to the patio to provide shade for occupants. (Source: TojaGrid)
2. Establish zones
Now that you have covered your needs, you need to think about the layout of the areas and the circulation around them to get your patio design right. First, it helps to divide your patio into distinct areas based on their intended use . For example, you could have a relaxation zone, a dining zone and an entertainment zone. If it is possible to combine them without compromising the intended use, you benefit from doing so. They will take up less space and you will maximize your surface area . Next, you need to think about the circulation between these areas and how people will move around the patio. Make sure that paths are wide enough to allow people to move around comfortably, without hindrance. Create a first sketch of your idea at this stage, you can then adapt it taking into account other aspects.
Photo: Dining area on the patio and lounge area near the swimming pool. (Source: TimberTech)
3. Think about materials
Many people make the mistake of thinking about materials after their patio design, since they only think about the aesthetic and practical aspect of them. What they don't know is that there is a technical and financial aspect to thinking about it beforehand. Regarding the sizes of materials , it is important to take them into account beforehand in order to optimize them. Patio materials can be found in different shapes and sizes. Depending on your choices, they can influence the design. For example, if you choose to make a composite patio, the majority of ranges are offered in 12, 16 and 20 foot long boards. Making a patio design with identical lengths or multiples of these lengths therefore becomes very interesting. This will allow you to make the boards profitable , therefore less expensive. In addition, it takes less time for construction, since there are fewer measurements and cuts. Obviously, it is also important when choosing your materials to take into account their durability, aesthetics and maintenance. However, keeping the technical aspect of their optimization in mind can be an excellent idea! If necessary, revise your sketch at this stage after having chosen the materials.
Photo: Example of a maintenance-free patio in Azek PVC , Vintage collection, Weathered Teak color. (Source: Azek)
4. Choose furniture, decoration and lighting
Finally, once the previous steps have been completed in your patio design, it is time to think about the elements that will go on it. We are talking here about furniture, decoration and lighting. The choice of furniture can influence certain elements of your design , since you must ensure that the dimensions are adequate for the zones and circulation areas on your patio. The furniture will define the style of your layout. Then, the choice of accessories will add comfort and personality to it. It is also important to take into account the lighting of your patio . Make sure you have adequate lighting for each area of your patio, so you can use it comfortably even after the sun goes down. Mood lights can also add a touch of charm to your outdoor space.
Photo: Adding decoration, plants and In-Lite lighting fixtures on the patio and in the yard to create atmosphere. (Source: In-Lite)
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